Alliance for Prosperity Plan in the Northern Triangle (PAPTN)

The Challenges from 2016 and expectations for 2017:

An Interview with Acisclo Valladares

The Alliance for Prosperity Plan is being carried out by the Northern Triangle countries along with the support of the United States. Where their main objective is to reduce the causes of migration generated from the creation and development of economic opportunities.

What were some of the biggest challenges faced in 2016?

At the beginning of 2016 we were able to reach out to the different sectors and main contributors within our economy. Now based on that, we were able to create a consultative board with members of the private, public and civil society sectors that would act as the plan´s governing body. What were some accomplishments within the 51 prioritized municipalities?

We were able to visit almost all 51 municipalities. This created a conversation with all relevant actors and define a roadmap to follow that will allow us to have a better idea of how we should be treating the different sectors.

It is definitely worth mentioning the selection of the 3 pilot municipalities (Nebaj, Momostenango, and Jocotán) where we believe to generate short-term mediation.

What can we expect from PAPTN in 2017?

We will be able to see various municipalities progressively moving forward and following their roadmap, being fully capable of attracting key elements of the municipality and guide them to complete projects. These will be categorized as more advanced than other municipalities, now the challenge will be supporting others to keep the same pace.

Who are the most important actors for the development and that PAPTN be successful in 2017?

The government through development advisement, local authorities and the civil society of municipalities. These are the people that will be supporting results, the projects and the mediation of corresponding indicators in each municipality.

What is the primary cause of people wanting to migrate?

In the case of Guatemala, majority of the migration phenom can be explained by the lack of opportunities for economic development. It’s rare that people migrate from their communities and to the Unites States just cause, our internal migration phenom is caused by the lack of education, and labor market access among others.

At the end of the day opportunities must be created locally. This is precisely why we must improve its very core, the Alliance for Prosperity Plan’s system, reach and strength.